Five Accused

Of Dealing In

Stolen Goods

Businessmen who sought to improve their profit margin by dealing outside the margin of the law in stolen computers openly solicited for their business, a Broward Sheriff's spokesman said.

But after agreeing on Friday to pay $218,000 for "hot" computers, the five men learned that their new partners in crime were undercover agents from the Sheriff's Organized Crime Division.

Arrested on Friday were Jean Richard, 44, and Ken Villeneuve, 34, both of Hallandale, along with Jose Guerrero, 45, of Miami, Randolph Edwards, 31, North Miami Beach, and Roger Turnbeaugh, 34, North Miami.

Each was charged with conspiracy to deal in stolen property and dealing in stolen property. They were released from the Broward County Jail after posting $5,000 bail.

Six weeks ago, undercover detectives focused on the Magic Alligator Import/Export business at 520 NE Fifth Ave., Hallandale, after learning that a group was looking to purchase stolen computers at bargain prices, Sheriff's spokesman George Crolius said.

Owners Richard and Villeneuve, who bragged about having a worldwide market for the stolen goods, then arranged a meeting for the detectives with a potential customer.

The proposed deal: About 350 computers, valued at $2,500 each, for $625 apiece.

Detectives then met with Guerrero, who was to provide the cash for the sale, Crolius said.

Turnbeaugh, Guerrero and Edwards were arrested on Friday after completing the deal at a warehouse in Fort Lauderdale. Richard and Villeneuve were arrested hours later when they arrived to pick up their commission for the sale, Crolius said.